Broncos are 2.5-point favorites against Texans this week

The Broncos (3-5) are surprise 2.5-point favorites against the Texans (5-3) in Week 9, according to Westgate Las Vegas (via OddsShark.com).

Oddsmakers usually spot the home team a three-point advantage but Denver opened as just a one-point favorite. The line has moved to 2.5 since then.

Oddsmakers in Vegas must view the Broncos as a better team than their record. On paper, Houston appears to be a better team.

The Texans have a strong defense, led by defensive lineman J.J. Watt, and an exciting offense, led by quarterback Deshaun Watson.

Watson threw 19 touchdown passes in seven games last year before suffering a season-ending injury. He hasn’t started the 2018 season quite as well, but his 15 touchdown passes in eight games is still a respectable total.

Denver’s defensive backs will have their hands full trying to cover DeAndre Hopkins, one of the best receivers in the NFL. Hopkins is Watson’s favorite target — they have connected 53 times for 789 yards and five touchdowns this year.